Visible scars can have a negative psychological effect on many patients. If there is a lingering mark on your face or body that is impacting your self-esteem, a scar revision surgery or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Larson may be able to help.

Understanding the different types of scars

There are a few different categories of scars. The revision procedure that’s right for you will depend on the type of mark you have:

Superficial

This is the most common type of scar. Superficial marks are visible and often unsightly, but they don’t cause pain or other issues.

Keloid

Keloid scars are large, painful and possibly itchy. They can be discolored and they extend beyond the original wound. This type of scar is common on areas of the body that are lacking in fatty tissue, such as the face, chest or shoulders.

Hypertrophic

This type of scar worsens with time, increasing in size and thickness and becoming more painful.

Contracture

A contracture scar is large, creates a tight feeling, and may limit movement. A severe burn is an example of this type of scar.

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How scar revision is performed

Dr. Larson offers a number of scar revision procedures, depending on the type, size and location of your scar. Most of them can be performed under local anesthesia, which means you will be awake and conscious during the experience, but you won’t feel any discomfort.

Here is a closer look at the techniques:

Shave excision

Shave excision is designed to create a smooth surface by removing the top of a scar. To perform this procedure, Dr. Larson will use a surgical shaver to obtain a flatter and more attractive scar appearance.

Surgical scar removal

Surgical scar removal is appropriate if your mark exists because the first wound or incision was closed improperly. In this case, Dr. Larson can remove the scar and surrounding skin and re-close the opening correctly to ensure optimal healing.

Skin grafting

If you have a very large scar, Dr. Larson may surgically remove it and close the wound using a skin graft taken from another location on the body. He will then place strategic sutures around the graft to ensure that the edges blend in with the surrounding skin.

Injectables

If your scar is concave, it may benefit from being injected with a dermal filler.

This non-surgical procedure can fill in the depressed area so that the surface of the scar is even with the rest of your skin.

After Your Scar Revision...

You can expect swelling, discoloration and discomfort in the treatment area for around two weeks. It will take a few weeks for the new scar to heal and fade, and the results should be very long-lasting. After scar revision, it’s important to protect the area from the sun.